TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Navy unveiled its domestically built rescue vessel, Da Wu, at Zuoying naval base in Kaohsiung on Thursday.
The CSBC-built ship will support navy vessels in distress during peacetime, CNA reported. During a conflict, it will stand by at naval bases and conduct retrieval operations when necessary.
The Dawu is equipped with a diving bell and a remotely operated vehicle, capable of reaching depths up to 500 meters.
It also has a firefighting water cannon with a range of 120 meters that can switch between seawater and foam for tackling oil fires. A 100-ton towing winch at the stern can pull vessels weighing 100,000 tons.
Rear Admiral Chen Ming-feng (陳明峯), commander of the 192nd Fleet, said the Dawu’s built-in diving equipment enables it to respond to emergencies immediately. The ship is set to enter service this year. Chen added that the Navy is planning a dedicated submarine rescue vessel, currently in development.